What’s So Special About European Bathrooms?

From old-world to modern, the European bath is a study in posh style.

Written by Deborah L. Martin

The Palácio Príncipe Real in Lisbon was a family home built in 1877. In 2015, the current owners transformed it into a boutique hotel that “recreated the decadent luxury of days gone by, with all the comforts of modern life.” Here, in one of the guest rooms, a marble clad bath includes the Wandle tub by Drummonds.

All bathrooms are not created equal, and there are more opinions about what makes the perfect bath experience than there are types of tile. But one thing is clear, when it comes to the European plan, style and function merge to create a beautiful juxtaposition of old-world elegance and modern innovation. Whether austere or over-the-top, and from tiny to grand, the European bath is always long on style and filled with luxurious touches that will withstand the test of time.

Consider the charming English beauty of Kate Moss’s country home in the Cotswolds, with its period details and original cast iron tub in the center of the room. Says Moss, “My bathroom in the country is my favorite bathroom in the world, it’s my haven.” Contrast that with the spa-like appeal of the modern bath from Scavolini, or the luxurious mix in Portugal’s Palácio Príncipe Real Lisbon, built in 1877.

It’s time for a European vacation.

Scavolini’s sophisticated Tratto exemplifies the European spa aesthetic, with contemporary lines in brass, bronze and steel finishes.

In Kate Moss’s home in the Cotswolds, Drummonds accented the existing period details with the Double Lowther Vanity Basin Suite and the Mull Classic Bath and Shower Mixer.

“Any work of architecture that does not express serenity is a mistake.”

Left: An ornate ceiling is original to the Palácio Príncipe Real. The light cast from a crystal chandelier glimmers on Drummonds’ Tay cast iron skirted bathtub with a polished nickel exterior. The matched pair of sinks is illuminated by Drummonds’ Dalby light with fluted glass shades.
Right: VOLA in matte white, by Hastings Tile & Bath has a silky, textural finish. Its modern profile contrasts beautifully with old-world style.